Guangzhou

Friday afternoon our guide was called suddenly to her home province, not sure why, she wouldn't tell us. We were introduced to David, another guide, but not an adoption guide. He was so excited to 'guide' us for a few hours because he is expecting his first (and probably only) baby in one month. He drilled me with pregnancy questions and we swapped how Chinese versus American ways are so different. It was funny to see how the customs and traditions overshadow what a person actually believes. There were things he and his wife have done or will do, not because they think it is right, but because 'ancient Chinese' customs tell them to do it. We did a lot of laughing and he couldn't believe we have five children. "not in China' he said! He took us to the "Muslim Quarter" of Xian, which was really fun, as there was a huge market there full of interesting things. We didn't have time for shopping because we were to meet another guide at the airport with Emma's passport in hand. So off we went to the crazy airport at 5 pm. We thankfully received Emma's passport with no problem. It was very hot in Xian on Friday (around 80 I think) and we could overhear on the loud speaker almost every flight being delayed. We were thankful that our flight boarded on time...however not so thrilled to be sitting for the next 75 minutes in the hot airplane, waiting for the runway to clear for our turn. The flight was terribly turbulent..but we were thankful that Emma fell asleep soon after we sat down and didn't wake up until after we landed at 10:50.

We are now in Guangzhou and have already decided this is the best place in China. Where everything in Xian was confusing, dirty, and gray...here it is lovely, green, and friendly. Although we didn't get to bed until after 12, we left the hotel 'early' at 9 and headed for Emma's physical examination. I was really nervous for this but it was easy. They took her picture in one room for her Visa appointment on Monday then we went to the exam area where they measured her, gave her a once over, and sent us to the waiting room for the all important document proving we had been there. I don't really understand the exam part, because they aren't treating anything or even commenting to us what they observe...really just a formality, I think. We spent our waiting time collecting and checking over our documents for Monday's appointment at the consulate, with our guide, Beky. She is super nice and very helpful....even took us to the store to restock on formula and diapers.

Emma is being a trooper. She must be so tired, taking in all the new sights, sounds, and smells around her. She is so brave, I so admire the strength of my little one!

We are staying at the Hotel China Marriott...it is super nice. The free breakfast this morning was even better than brunch at the Coeur D'Alene. :) We keep trying things with Em, but she is happy living on her liquid diet for now. We are in a pretty spot here..trees everywhere and there is a park down the street that we will venture out to this afternoon. For now, dear sweet sister is snoring away in her crib. There is a Starbucks in this hotel, a McDonald's next door, and 7-11 across the street. We are thankful to be where there are more familiar things.

We are free for the rest of the day to rest and relax and check out the shops around our hotel. Sunday is more sightseeing and more rest before the most-important Consulate appointment on Monday morning. So excited to be seeing the last leg of this process being completed!! We have grown so much and are so in love with Emma. I think anytime someone adopts, especially without ever meeting the child, there is a fear in the back of your mind "what if I don't love" her like my bio kids. I am no different and had these types of fears from the beginning. I chose to love Wei Xiao Ting from the moment we set eyes on her...but now it is not a mind decision...it is so very much a heart condition! We are in love with our Emma!

I am sorry for the lack of pictures...I will head down to the lobby now and see if I can get at least one up. There is no wifi in the rooms here...only something to hook up to with a laptop..so I guess you live and learn. Sitting in the lobby for an hour to download a picture isn't the greatest..so bare with me. Almost home and then we can share all the pictures. :)

Love to all, miss everyone so much and can't wait to get home and share Emma with you all!
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